Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra has stated that, at this hour, Srettha Thavisin is the right man to lead Thailand.

In an exclusive interview with Nikkei Asia last Friday, Paetongtarn said that her party’s coalition will remain intact with Srettha as the premier.

There had been speculation that Srettha might have to step down, if Pheu Thai’s promised “Digital Wallet” scheme cannot be delivered, potentially paving the way for Paetongtarn to take over.

“I think he’s the right man at this hour for the country. If the government can endure and be more stable, that would be the perfect scenario for us,” she said, adding “He’s a person I trust, so I consult with him a lot.”

The digital wallet has faced numerous difficulties, particularly reservations from the Bank of Thailand and the National Anti-Corruption Commission. As a result, the government has postponed the scheme’s launch, initially set for May.

When asked about her father, incarcerated former PM Thaksin, who is currently receiving treatment at the Police General Hospital, she said he is ill but will survive.

She has consulted with Thaksin often, emphasising that he is highly respected by all Pheu Thai members, but he won’t be taking any position.

Paetongtarn reiterated that her party has no plans to reconsider a coalition with Move Forward, as its signature policy of amending the lèse majesté law is “a red line” for Pheu Thai and other conservative parties.

“We still disagree on many things, such as amending Section 112 [of the Thai criminal code (lèse majesté)]. We have discussed this behind the scenes and presented all the reasons why we couldn’t join them,” she said.